The first UCF Knights player is off the board in the 2025 MLB Draft. Antonio Jimenez went to the New York Mets in Round 3.
UCF baseball’s streak continued on Day 1 of the 2025 MLB Draft.
Shortstop Antonio Jimenez became the first Knight chosen this summer when the New York Mets took him in the third round with the 102nd overall pick. It’s the 34th straight year a UCF player has been selected.
The slot value for the 102nd pick is $752,000. It was the fourth-last slot Sunday night.
The event will continue at 11:30 a.m. Monday, July 14.
Before the draft, MLB.com ranked Jimenez the 172nd best prospect available. Here is what he brings to the Mets organization.
What does UCF's Antonio Jimenez bring to the New York Mets?
Jimenez comes with a caveat. He entered the transfer portal last month. If he returns to the college ranks, it might not be with the Knights.
However, he made the most of his one year in Orlando.
After transferring from Miami, the 6-foot-1, 200-pound infielder compiled a .329 batting average and .982 OPS. In 55 games, he ripped 11 home runs, collected 51 RBIs, scored 55 times and stole 11 bases. That included a 24-game on-base streak.
Scouts like his power potential and his defensive attributes. His best tool at shortstop is his strong right arm. He closed his sophomore campaign with a .961 fielding percentage.
Jimenez also bats right-handed.
This article originally appeared on The Daytona Beach News-Journal: Antonio Jimenez picked by New York Mets in 2025 MLB Draft Round 3
Category: General Sports
